Meet Al-karim Moloo | Accountant and Serial Entrepreneur

We had the good fortune of connecting with Al-karim Moloo and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Al-Karim, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
I think we all have moments where we think we are destined for more. We know that taking risks can yield positive results, however, there are different kinds of risks and one must determine if they are comfortable taking more conservative calculated risks, or if one is willing to put more on the line. When I think about taking risks, I try to leave any doubts behind. I don’t let others occupy any space that creates doubt and I focus on the outcome I am looking for. My parents, who took the ultimate risk and left East Africa and moved to Canada, inspire me. They were focused on one outcome only. A brighter future and opportunity for themselves and for future generations. They abandoned the comforts and familiarity of their home country and started all over again. Seeing my parents work hard and make sacrifices that have put me in a position where I can take risks has been my inspiration. When I was younger and had just finished articling as an accountant, I was offered a job opportunity in Bermuda. Without hesitation, I packed 2 suitcases and called Bermuda home for the next two years. Still hungry for more adventure, I didn’t stop there and moved to London for another year before coming back to Canada. These experiences have helped shape the person I am and my attitude towards change. Throughout my life and career I have never shied away from risk. I was never solely driven by money, but rather, by the prospective of personal growth, overcoming any fears and obstacles, and challenging the status quo.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I am a CPA and a partner in a boutique Tax and Advisory firm in Canada. 12 years ago, my business partner and I left the stability of a big international firm and started our own practice. This was a big risk, especially with a young family, but was necessary as I felt trapped in my current position and felt I was shortchanging myself. I knew I could do more. We built a firm that would attract clients that we wanted to work with and ultimately created a corporate culture where integrity, respect, balance and competency were central to our firm. I believe that this has given us the opportunity to build long lasting relationships with some amazing colleagues and clients. To me, this speaks more to our firm’s success than our bottom line, In addition to the firm, I am a sommelier and have my WSET which is a certification by the Wine and Spirit Education Trust. What started out as a hobby building wine lists and advising friends who were building their cellars, has now turned into another business venture. Three years ago, I set up a Liquor Agency that imports wine and spirits from around the world. I also have a distribution team in Europe and consult with brands that are looking to expand into the North American market. One of my proudest moments was when one of my brands won 18 awards in 2023. I very much enjoy working with my producers as their passion about what they do is contagious and gets me excited about promoting their products.

Success does not come without hard work and determination. While failure is not desirable option for many, it is an essential part of growth. Its what you do with failure that matters. If you never fall, you will never learn to pick yourself up. Each mishap along the way is an opportunity for learning and growth. This has not been an easy journey for me. There have been many long hours, many sacrifices, and many bumps in the road that have led me here. What keeps me focused is my “why”. This helps me get back on track and forces me not to get complacent. A big lesson I have had to learn is to be comfortable with who I am and not to change no matter what comes at me. I know what I can do. I know what I can accomplish, and I will not steer off my course. I have also learned that while it can be easy to look at someone else’s success and think they have it better, this attitude will not serve you. Stay focused on your own path, celebrate your successes, work hard, and remain humble.

I want the world to know me as a good person, someone with values, someone that has integrity, and someone who tries to be a good role model to his children. I want to leave a legacy and be remembered as a person who made a positive impact to humanity!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Arizona is such an amazing state. I think for me, given I have spent more time in Phoenix/Scottsdale, I honestly love what it offers for nature and nightlife. I think we would start by golfing at one of the beautiful courses at Desert Mountain or TPC Scottsdale, followed by lunch on a patio. On a cooler day, I would hit up one of the many hiking trails and take in the spectacular scenery. Scottsdale also has a thriving nightlife with many trendy restaurants and lounges. Old Scottsdale is such an eclectic mix of wine bars, restaurants and shopping.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are so many people to thank along this journey called life. I have been blessed to meet some truly incredible people that have helped shape who I am and what I’ve become. Most importantly, are my parents and my family. They have and continue to inspire me to work hard and never give up. The doubters along the way also get some recognition. The fuel of proving myself to those who didn’t believe in me has been a great motivator.

Website: www.collectiogroup.com; www.wbmpllp.com

Instagram: collectio_imports

Image Credits
Alvina Phan Photography
The Kingly Custom Men’s Wear